Neuro Activator with Controller

ABSTRACT

A neuro activation system includes a patch adapted to be applied externally on a dermis of a user, the patch comprising a flexible substrate and an adhesive on a first side adapted to adhere to the dermis of the user, an electronic package directly coupled to the substrate, the electronic package including a control unit and one or more stimulators, and electrodes directly coupled to the substrate and the electronic package, the patch adapted to generate an electrical stimuli via the electrodes. The neuro activation system further includes a controller in wireless communication with the patch, the controller including remote functionality to start and stop the electrical stimuli.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Pat. Appln. Ser. No. 62/697,692, filed on Jul. 13, 2018, and to U.S. Provisional Pat. Appln. Ser. No. 62/697,702, filed on Jul. 13, 2018. This application is further a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/385,361, filed Apr. 16, 2019, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/650,228, filed Apr. 14, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,307,591, which is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/893,946, filed Nov. 25, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,016,600, which claims priority to PCT Pat. Appln. Ser. No. PCT/US2014/40240, filed May 30, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Pat. Appln. Ser. No. 61/828,981, filed May 30, 2013. The disclosure of each of these applications is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

This invention is directed generally to externally applied neural activation/stimulation for medical purposes.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Nerve disorders may result in loss of control of muscle and other body functions, loss of sensation, or pain. Surgical procedures and medications sometimes treat these disorders but have limitations. This invention pertains to a system for offering other options for treatment and improvement of function.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a smart patch, attached to the medial malleolus of a user on the right or left ankle of the user in accordance to examples.

FIG. 2 illustrates a smart input device that functions as a neuro activator controller of a patch in some examples.

FIG. 3 illustrates details of one example smart input device when the smart input device is running a control machine, which is shown as a user interface (“UI”).

FIGS. 4A-C, FIGS. 5A-5C, FIG. 6, FIGS. 7A-B and FIG. 8 illustrate various UIs of the control machine and states of operation in accordance with examples.

FIG. 9 illustrates a state machine in according to examples.

FIG. 10 illustrates a fob in accordance to examples.

FIG. 11 illustrates the fob, including elements of the user interface, in accordance to examples.

FIG. 12 illustrates a smart patch that includes a supplemental button in accordance with examples.

FIG. 13A is a circuit diagram of an example of a boosted voltage circuit.

FIG. 13B is a circuit diagram of an example of a charge application circuit.

FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of the functionality of a controller for monitoring and controlling output voltage, including its ramp rate.

FIG. 15 is a flow diagram in accordance with one example of an adaptive protocol.

FIG. 16 is a differential integrator circuit that is an example of a circuit used to integrate current measured over time.

FIG. 17 is a table in accordance with one example showing the number of pulses per treatment measured against two parameters, frequency and duration.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a computer system in accordance with examples.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Inventions are directed to a controller for a patch that is externally applied to a user and activates/stimulates nerves of the user, under control of the controller, to provide improvements to bodily functions, including improvements in urinary voiding behaviors associated with an overactive bladder (“OAB”).

FIG. 1 illustrates a “smart” patch 100, attached to the medial malleolus of a user on the right or left ankle 110 of the user in accordance to examples. The placement of patch 100 is designed to cause electrical stimuli to activate the tibial nerve of the user in one example to alleviate OAB symptoms. The term “smart”, in general, refers to the use of memory and logic components and instructions, and may also include electronic components for communications, to generate some or all of the functionality disclosed herein.

Patch 100 can be any type of device that can be fixedly attached to a user and includes a processor/controller and instructions that are executed by the processor, or a hardware implementation without software instructions, and communication elements to provide communications with the controller disclosed below. Patch 100 can also include additional components that provide topical nerve stimulation on the user to provide benefits to the user, including bladder management for an overactive bladder, such as electrodes, sensors, a battery, adhesive, a control unit, an electronic integrated package, stimulators, etc.

Patch 100 in one example can include a flexible substrate, a malleable dermis conforming bottom surface of the substrate including adhesive and adapted to contact the dermis, a flexible top outer surface of the substrate approximately parallel to the bottom surface, one or more electrodes positioned on the patch proximal to the bottom surface and located beneath the top outer surface and directly contacting the flexible substrate, electronic circuitry embedded in the patch and located beneath the top outer surface and integrated as a system on a chip that is directly contacting the flexible substrate, the electronic circuitry integrated as the system on the chip and including an electrical signal generator integral to the malleable dermis conforming bottom surface configured to electrically activate the one or more electrodes, a signal activator coupled to the electrical signal generator, a nerve stimulation sensor that provides feedback in response to a stimulation of one or more nerves, an antenna configured to communicate with a remote activation device, a power source in electrical communication with the electrical signal generator, and the signal activator, where the signal activator is configured to activate in response to receipt of a communication with the activation device by the antenna and the electrical signal generator configured to generate one or more electrical stimuli in response to activation by the signal activator, and the electrical stimuli configured to activate/stimulate one or more nerves of a user wearing patch 100 at least at one location proximate to patch 100. Additional details of examples of patch 100 are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 10,016,600, entitled “Topical Neurological Stimulation”, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

In addition to the above, patch 100 includes one or more of a digital identity 120, a digital serial number 122, and a physical serial number 124 (generally referred to as an “identity”) that provides a unique digital identity.

The user is a person using smart patch 100 by applying it to their left or right ankle according to the instructions for use provided with smart patch 100 in some examples.

Smart patch 100 generates a stimulation event, during which a transcutaneous electrical neurostimulation (“TENS”) signal or other type of electrical signal, or “electrical stimuli”, is sent into the user where smart patch 100 has been applied to the skin, the signal being sent to defer the user's urge to urinate in examples. In one example, the electrical stimuli has a duration of approximately 10 seconds. In another example, the electrical stimuli includes square waves having an amplitude between 10 and 100 volts, pulse widths between 100 and 500 microseconds, and a pulse repetition rate of between 3 and 30 pulses per second. In another example, the electrical stimuli includes voltage-regulated square waves having frequencies between 10 Hz and 50 Hz, and having currents between 20 mA and 200 mA.

A leak event is an occasion in which the user passes some urine after feeling the urge to urinate and failing to suppress that urge through the use of one or more stimulation events.

A no leak event is an occasion in which the user passes no urine after feeling the urge to urinate and succeeding at suppressing that urge through the use of one of more stimulation events.

Stimulation strength is the amplitude of the electrical signal created during a stimulation event, this amplitude being adjustable by the user or automatically adjusted based on feedback.

FIG. 2 illustrates a smart input device 200 that functions as a neuro activator controller of patch 100 in some examples. Device 200 includes a display 212, a power button 214, and a speaker 220. Device 200 can be a specialized device for controlling patch 100, or can be implemented by an application (“app”) on a smartphone or any other general purpose device capable of executing applications and communicating with patch 100, or otherwise implementing the functionality disclosed herein (e.g., smart watch, tablet, fitness tracker, etc.).

In examples, recognition signaling is the wireless signaling protocol transmitted and received between device 200 and patch 100 according to the communication protocol selected by the two devices, this protocol being used by smart input device 200 to detect a smart patch 100, in some instances out of multiple available smart patches 100. The communication protocol is also used for the exchange of data between the smart input device 200 and smart patch 100, this protocol being used by smart input device 200 to recognize a smart patch 100, and a smart patch 100 to recognize a smart input device 200.

Activation range is the distance over which the user is able to succeed at connecting smart input device 200 to smart patch 100, this distance being a function of at least the signaling protocol, the physical distance between smart input device 200 and smart patch 100, and materials in between smart input device 200 and smart patch 100, which may impede the signal.

Smart patch power level is the measure of power remaining in smart patch 100.

In some examples, smart input device 200 and smart patch 100 use Bluetooth Low Energy (“BLE”) signaling protocol to communicate. In other examples, other wireless communication methods can be used, such as Bluetooth based communications in all its other variations, Wi-Fi, or other RF means.

In some examples, the communication protocol activates smart input device 200 and smart patch 100 act as controller and peripheral, respectively. Communications are initiated between smart input device 200 and smart patch 100 by smart input device 200, and smart patch 100 responds only when the communication is initiated by smart input device 200, this priority being used to conserve the power used in smart patch 100 over time.

In some examples, smart input device 200 is used by the user to trigger a stimulation event. In some examples, smart input device 200 is used by the user to stop a stimulation event.

FIG. 3 illustrates details of one example smart input device 200 when smart input device 200 is running a control machine 300, which is shown as a user interface (“UI”). Control machine 300 in examples is an application executed by a processor. Control machine 300 includes a start/state button 310, a stop button 312, an increase button 314, a decrease button 316, a connection icon 320, a lock icon 322, a status display 330, a status indicator 340, a menu button 350, a leak button 360, a no leak button 362, and an intensity slider 370.

The user begins the use of smart patch 100 with smart input device 200 by launching or initiating control machine 300 on smart input device 200, in one example as an app.

In some examples, control machine 300 opens onto display 212, showing start button 310, stop button 312, increase button 314, decrease button 316, connection icon 320, lock icon 322, status display 330 and status indicator 340. In some examples, control machine 300 may include only a status indicator 340 and no separate status display 330.

In some examples, control machine 300 may display only connection icon 320, or only lock icon 322, or neither of these icons, the values for these functions being available to the user by pressing or tapping on menu button 350, and then selecting the option to view the control machine's settings.

In some examples, control machine 300 indicates changes of status to the user by outputting a sound or sounds from speaker 220 or a vibration using an actuator. In some examples, control machine 300 additionally shows leak button 360 and no leak button 362. In some examples, control machine 300 shows intensity slider 370 in place of increase button 314 and decrease button 316.

In some examples, the user creates a communication connection, referred to as an “initialization,” from smart input device 200 to smart patch 100 by placing smart input device 200 within the activation range of smart patch 100. Smart patch 100 detects the recognition signaling from smart input device 200, and smart patch 100 responds by signaling to smart input device 200 with its digital identity 120. Smart input device 200 detects this response signal and checks the digital identity 120. If digital identity 120 matches that of a known type of smart patch 100, then smart input device 200 initiates a connection according to the protocols appropriate to the wireless link between itself and the recognized smart patch 100.

In some examples, each manufactured unit of smart patch 100 includes a unique digital serial number 122, the digital serial number being a sequence of alphanumeric characters or a numerical value in a digitally encoded form. Smart input device 200 identifies smart patch 100 as not only the appropriate device but also checks the smart patch's digital serial number. If more than one smart patch 100 is detected within range by smart input device 200, then smart input device 200 connects to smart patch 100 with the unique digital serial number 122 value matching that of smart patch 100 to which smart input device 200 was most recently connected. If the identification does not match the value of the most recently connected smart patch 100, then smart input device 200 checks the value against the list of digital serial number 122 values for each smart patch 100 to which it had previously been connected, and then connects to the smart patch 100 having digital serial number 122 matched first on the list, sequentially looking further back into its history of connections. If none of the detected smart patch's 100 unique digital serial numbers 122 match the identification value for any previously-connected smart patch 100 for smart input device 200, then smart input device 200 connects to the first smart patch 100 on the list of detected smart patches 100, assuming the first or any subsequent patches are powered up.

In some examples, the identity checking between smart input device 200 and smart patch 100 may allow for multiple values of digital identity 120, such that multiple distinct types of smart patches 100 may interconnect with smart input device 200.

In some examples, variations on the priority scheme for connecting to one of many detected smart patches 100 may be used by smart input device 200. For example, smart input device 200, having estimated the distance to each detected smart patch 100, may attempt to connect to the closest detected smart patch 100, then the next closest, then continuing down the list of detected smart patches 100 until smart input device 200 has attempted to connect to each detected smart patch 100.

If smart input device 200, when placed within activation range of the smart patch 100, fails to detect a response signal from any device within a time limit set in the configuration of smart input device 200, then smart input device 200 indicates to the user this failure to establish a link.

If smart input device 200 is not placed within activation range of any smart patch 100, then smart input device 200 indicates to the user this failure to detect any smart patches 100.

In some examples, smart input device 200 includes a digital identification code that is unique to the one specific smart input device 200, and it sends this digital identification code to smart patch 100 as part of the initialization process, this unique digital identification code being a sequence of alphanumeric characters or a numerical value in a digitally encoded form.

In some examples, smart input device 200 controls the activation range by limiting detection of nearby smart patches 100 to those smart patches 100 within the activation range, even if the signaling protocol recognizes more smart patches 100 with adequate signal to complete the signaling protocol. By limiting the activation range, smart input device 200 prevents smart patches 100 on second and subsequent users near to smart input device 200, but outside the activation range, from being connected inadvertently to the smart input device 200.

In some examples, if smart patch 100 is placed within the activation range of more than one smart input device 200, then control machine 300 running on each of those smart input devices 200 arbitrates for only one smart input device 200 to connect to the smart patch, since a smart patch 100 may be connected to only one smart input device 200 at a time. In some examples, the user on each of smart input devices 200 is prompted on status display 330 to initiate a connection attempt. In some examples, the smart input device 200 closest in distance to smart patch 100 has priority in connecting to smart patch 100. In some examples, the smart input device 200 prioritizes connection to use one of the previously-connected smart patches 100.

In some examples, the indication to the user is a message displayed on the screen of smart input device 200, using one or more of connection icon 320, lock icon 322, and status display 330.

In some examples, the indication to the user is an illumination of status indicator 340, with an illumination pattern or time sequence different from illumination in the connected condition.

In some examples, the indication to the user is an audible signal through speaker 220, with a tone or sequence of tones different from the tone or tones used in the connected condition, or a vibration.

In some examples, smart input device 200 disconnects from smart patch 100 to which smart input device 200 had been connected by moving control machine 300 on smart input device 200 to the background, out of view on display 212.

In some examples, smart input device 200 disconnects from smart patch 100 to which smart input device 200 had been connected by exiting control machine 300 on smart input device 200.

In some examples, smart input device 200 disconnects from smart patch 100 to which smart input device 200 had been connected when power is turned off on smart input device 200 with power button 214.

In some examples, when smart input device 200 disconnects smart patch 100, smart input device 200 saves the settings used with that smart patch 100. The settings may include one or more of the smart patch 100's digital identity 120, the smart patch 100's digital serial number 122, the activation/stimulation strength, and the time at which the last stimulation event was applied.

In some examples, when a smart input device 200 which has saved one or more settings from one connected state to a smart patch 100 is later connected to the same or a different smart patch 100, the smart input device 200 applies one or more of the saved settings to the established connection to a smart patch 100. In such an example, the user may not be required to re-establish a stimulation strength setting for stimulation events, since the smart input device will use the stimulation strength setting saved from the previous connection to a smart patch.

In some examples, smart input device 200 uses previously-saved settings for a connection to a smart patch 100 only when one or more of digital identity 120 and digital serial number 122 of the smart patch in the new connection is identical to the digital identity and digital serial number of the smart patch in the prior connection. In such an example, when the digital identities do not match, the smart input device connects in a mode which requires a new initialization by the user.

In some examples, smart input patch 100 stores a unique digital identification value for each of the one or more smart input devices 200 to which it is or has been connected. When smart patch 100 is disconnected from smart input device 200, then later a new connection is attempted when the smart patch comes into proximity of a smart input device 200, smart patch 100 checks the digital identity received from smart input device 200 with each stored digital identity. If the digital identity of smart input device 200 matches the value of one of the stored digital identities, then smart patch 100 allows the connection request from smart input device 200 to proceed, and a connection is completed. If the digital identity of smart input device 200 does not match any of the values of those stored digital identities in smart patch 100, then smart patch 100 may prevent the connection request from smart input device 200 from succeeding.

A stimulation event requires a stimulation strength adequate to stimulate the nerve through the tissue from the external electrode in smart patch 100. The stimulation strength is increased or decreased to adjust to changes in the impedance of the tissue, or to counter inaccurate placement of the patch on the user's skin. Therefore, the stimulation strength may need to be stronger or weaker when moving from one smart patch to a new smart patch, or from one placement of a smart patch to an adjusted placement of the smart patch, or from one usage on skin of one condition, such as dry skin, to a new usage on skin of a different condition, such as moist skin.

In some examples, smart input device 200 is used by the user to set the stimulation strength of the electrical activation/stimulation for stimulation events. The user presses or taps increase button 314 or decrease button 316 to increase or decrease the stimulation strength, respectively. Smart input device 200 sets an upper maximum limit to the stimulation strength, and a lower minimum limit to the stimulation strength, such that any increase button 314 presses or taps to increase beyond the maximum limit have no effect, and such that any decrease button 316 presses or taps to decrease beyond the minimum limit have no effect.

In some examples, smart input device 200 provides an intensity slider 370 such that the user may increase or decrease the activation/stimulation strength by sliding a finger along intensity slider 370, this function being equivalent to pressing or tapping on increase button 314 or decrease button 316, the stimulation strength being constrained to between a minimum value and a maximum value.

In some examples, the range of stimulation strength is displayed to the user in terms of a minimum and maximum numerical limit. In some examples, the range of stimulation strength is displayed to the user in terms of a percentage of the allowed numerical range, with a minimum percentage limit and a maximum percentage limit. In some examples, smart input device 200 indicates to the user the current stimulation strength on the smart input device's status display 330.

In some examples, the user may lock the stimulation strength setting by pressing or tapping lock icon 322 on smart input device 200, such that subsequent presses or taps on increase button 314 or decrease button 316 have no effect on the stimulation strength until lock icon 322 is used again to unlock the setting.

In some examples, smart input device 200 indicates to the user the lock or unlock state of the settings on the smart input device's status display 330 using one or more of a change of icon, a change of text message, or a change of color. For example, an icon may change from red to green to indicate a change from inactive state represented by that icon to an active state.

In some examples, the user presses or taps start button 310 on smart input device 200 to begin a stimulation event. In some examples, the user presses or taps stop button 312 to end a stimulation event. In some examples, the stimulation event continues from the press or tap the start button 310 until the stimulation event ends at a preset timer value, this preset value being defined in control machine 300.

In some examples, the stimulation event begins when the user presses or taps on increase button 314 or decrease button 316, the stimulation strength for that stimulation event being adjusted to the value indicated by the use of the increase button or the decrease button. In some examples, the stimulation event does not begin with the press or tap of increase button 314 or decrease button 316, but instead begins with the press or tap of start button 310.

In some examples, the stimulation strength used by smart patch 100 is set using the stimulation strength set for the previously-connected smart patch 100, the value of the stimulation strength being saved in one or both of control machine 300 on smart input device 200, and smart patch 100. The user's first use of start button 310 after affixing a new smart patch to the skin and establishing a connection to it from smart input device 200 may initiate a stimulation event with the stimulation strength of the previously-connected smart patch. The use of the previously-set stimulation strength requires fewer user operations such as button presses or taps than requiring the user to adjust the stimulation strength beginning at the default value each time a new smart patch is applied. A change in the condition of the skin or in the positioning of the newly-applied smart patch may cause the previously-connected stimulation strength to be inconsistent with the optimum strength for the newly-attached smart patch.

In some examples, the stimulation strength used by smart patch 100 is set using the default value set in control machine 300. The user's first use of start button 310 after applying a new smart patch 100 and establishing a connection to it from smart input device 200 may initiate a stimulation event with the stimulation strength at the default value. If the skin condition or the position of the newly-attached smart patch differ from the conditions for the previously-connected smart patch, then beginning after affixing a new smart patch to the skin with the use of the default stimulation strength reduces the chance of using a stimulation strength inappropriate for the conditions with the newly-attached smart patch.

In some examples, after the user applies a new smart patch 100, the user may be prompted to choose between to begin use of the new smart patch 100 at the default stimulation strength, or to begin use of the new smart patch 100 at the stimulation strength set by the previously-connected smart patch. In some examples, the user may be able to save this choice as part of the settings within control machine 300.

In some examples, the user presses or taps leak button 360 to indicate to control machine 300 that the user has not successfully suppressed the urge to urinate by applying a stimulation event with smart patch 100. Control machine 300 records/saves this leak event for later review and analysis. In some examples, the user presses or taps no leak button 362 to indicate to control machine 300 that the user has successfully suppressed the urge to urinate by applying a stimulation event with smart patch 100. Control machine 300 records/saves this no leak event for later review and analysis.

In some examples, the indication to the user of a detected smart patch 100 is an illumination of status indicator 340, with an illumination pattern or time sequence different from illumination in the connected condition. In some examples, the indication to the user of a detected smart patch 100 is an audible signal through speaker 220, with a tone or sequence of tones different from the tone or tones used in the connected condition or a vibration.

FIGS. 4A-C, FIGS. 5A-5C, FIG. 6, FIGS. 7A-B and FIG. 8 illustrate various UIs of control machine 300 and states of operation in accordance with examples. FIG. 4A illustrates a disconnected state and state/start button 310 showing a searching state. FIG. 4B illustrates a patch found state as shown on state/start button 310.

In some examples, the user begins in control machine 300 at disconnected state 400 at FIG. 5A. If a connection has not yet been made to a smart patch 100, then connection icon 320 displays a disconnected state and state button 310 displays the reason for the lack of connection, such as “no device found”. In the disconnected state, lock icon 322, decrease button 312, increase button 314, stop button 312, leak button 360, no leak button 362, and patch power level indicator 330 are all inactive and do not respond to the user's press or tap.

In some examples, the inactive state of one or more buttons or indicators of control machine 300 is indicated by changing the colors of those user interface elements to a monochrome shading, or to a color designated in the user guide as the color of inactive elements, or by changing the borders or size of the elements.

In some examples, the user presses or taps on start/state button 310 on the disconnected state 400 display. Control machine 300 proceeds to a searching state 440 and the display changes to indicate on state button 310 that the control machine is using its signaling protocol to search for one or more smart patches 100. Control machine 300, on detecting one or more smart patches, proceeds to a found state 450 which changes the display to indicate on state button 310 that one or more smart patches has been found.

In some examples, the user presses or taps on connection icon 320 on disconnected state 400 display. Control machine 300 proceeds to searching state 440 (FIG. 4A) and the display changes to indicate on state button 310 that the control machine 300 is using its signaling protocol to search for one or more smart patches 100. Control machine 300, on detecting one or more smart patches 100, proceeds to found state 450 which changes the display to indicate on state button 310 that one or more smart patches 100 has been found (FIG. 4B). If only one patch 100 is found, functionality proceeds to FIG. 4C. Otherwise, a list of smart patches 100 is shown in FIG. 5C. Control machine 300 remains in the found state only long enough to complete the connection process, at which time the control machine moves to the connected state 600 of FIG. 6.

In some examples, when the smart input device 200 is in the disconnected state 400, the user may press or tap on connection icon 320 to initiate a new search for nearby smart patches 100.

In some examples, the user presses or taps on state button 310 when the control machine 300 is in found state 450, and state button 310 indicates that one or more smart patches 100 has been detected but not connected (FIG. 5C). Control machine 300 proceeds to display connections states 500 of FIG. 5C, on which are displayed the available patch list 510 of smart patches 100 to which smart input device 200 has either been previously-connected or has never yet been connected, using a label such as “currently connected” or “currently paired”. The user selects a specific smart patch by pressing or tapping on the name of that smart patch 100 in either list. Control machine 300 then attempts to connect to that smart patch 100. If the connection is made successfully, then control machine 300 moves to connected state 600 of FIG. 6, with connection icon 320 set to show an active connection. If the connection is not made successfully, then control machine 300 displays a status message to the user on the connections state display, and then waits for the user to make a new selection. If the user chooses to make no further smart patch selection, then the user presses or taps on a done button 530 (FIG. 5C), and control machine 300 returns to disconnected state 400, leaving connection icon 320 set to show a disconnected state and state button 310 to indicate no connection.

In some examples, control machine 300 is in the connections state 500 but is unable to connect with any listed smart patch 100, in which case the connection icon 320 is colored or otherwise shown distinctively to indicate that there is no connection to a smart patch. The user may press connection icon 320 to initiate a repeat of the search for nearby smart patches.

In some examples, the connection attempt may be unsuccessful as a result of smart patch 100 failing to identify smart input device 200 using the smart input device's unique digital identification, in the case when smart patch 100 stores the values of the one or more smart digital devices 200 to which it was previously connected, yet it cannot find the digital identification of smart input device 200 currently attempting to connect. When the connection attempt fails for this reason, control machine 300 may move to a rejected state 460 (FIG. 9) and the user may be presented with an appropriate message or icon, such as flashing or changing the color of the connection icon 320, or by labeling state button 310 with “unknown” or similar label, to indicate an unknown smart input device is attempting to connect to a smart patch 100. This indication may timeout, using a timer preset in smart input device 200, or the user may press or tap a button on smart input device 200, such as state button 310, and control machine 300 may then move to connections state 500 if the user has accepted the connection attempt, or may then move to disconnected state 400 if the user has rejected the connection attempt.

In some examples, if the user makes no selection of a smart patch 100, and the user does not press or tap done button 530, and a timer set by control machine 300 expires, then control machine 300 returns to disconnected state 400, leaving the connection icon 320 set to show a disconnected state and state button 310 to indicate no connection.

In the connected state 600, lock icon 322, decrease button 312, increase button 314, state button 310, stop button 312, leak button 360, no leak button 362 are all active and respond to the user's press or tap.

In some examples, control machine 300 in connected state 600 shows the smart patch power level in the connected smart patch 100 using patch power level indicator 330, changing the appearance of that indicator to show when the smart patch power level is low such that the user should remove the connected smart patch 100 from ankle 110, and apply a new smart patch 100.

In some examples, control machine 300 in connected state 600 shows the current stimulation strength and makes active state button 310, stop button 312, increase button 314, decrease button 316, such that the user may press or tap on any of these buttons to initiate that button's function. Control machine 300 indicates a state of readiness to perform a stimulation event by labeling the state button with “start”, or similar label.

In some examples, control machine 300 in the connected state 600 returns to disconnected state 400 when the user initiates a stimulation event and the connection between smart input device 200 and smart patch 100 is interrupted.

In some examples, control machine 300 in connected state 600 shows lock icon 322 to indicate the locked or unlocked state of the stimulation strength in connected smart patch 100.

In some examples, control machine 300 in the connected state 600 makes active leak button 360 and no leak button 362 (as shown in FIG. 8) such that the user may press or tap on either button to initiate that button's function. In some examples, if control machine 300 in searching state 440 fails to detect any nearby smart patch 100, then control machine 300 shows a fail state 700 (FIG. 7B), and indicates this inability to find a smart patch by changing one or both of the labeling of state button 310 with “no patch in range”, or similar label, and by coloring or otherwise changing connection icon 320. The control machine may wait for the user to press or tap the state button or may timeout after waiting a preset length of time for the user. In either case, the control machine returns to the disconnected state 400.

In some examples, control machine 300 in connected state 600 with smart patch 100 reads data from the smart patch, including one or more of current stimulation strength, current state of the smart patch, such as “stimulating” or “waiting”, and current smart patch power level.

FIG. 9 illustrates a state diagram of control machine 300 in according to examples, including the transitions from one state to a new state, for disconnected state 400, searching state 440, found state 450, rejected state 460, connections state 500, connected state 600, and fail state 700.

In some examples, instead of using control machine 300 as the remote controller for patch 100, a dedicated fob is used. FIG. 10 illustrates a fob 1200 in accordance to examples. Fob 1200 includes a battery activation tab 1210.

FIG. 11 illustrates fob 1200, including elements of the user interface in accordance to examples. The UI elements include a start button 1220, a stop button 1222, a pair button 1224, an increase button 1226, a decrease button 1228, and a status indicator 1230.

In some examples, fob 1200 is used by the user to trigger a stimulation event. In some examples, fob 1200 is used by the user to stop a stimulation event.

The user begins the use of smart patch 100 with fob 1200 by removing battery activation tab 1210 from fob 1200.

In some examples, fob 1200 indicates to the user that the power level inside fob 1200 is insufficient for proper operation, using status indicator 1230 with a distinctive illumination pattern.

In general, fob 1200 interfaces and interacts with smart patch 100 in a similar manner as disclosed above in connection with smart input device 200, and where relevant, the description of functionality of smart input device 200 also applies to the functionality of fob 1200.

If fob 1200, when placed within the activation range of smart patch 100, fails to detect a response signal from any device within a time limit set in the configuration of fob 1200, then fob 1200 indicates to the user this failure to establish a link. In some examples, fob 1200 indicates this failure to link using a distinctive sequence of on and off illuminations of status indicator 1230, or a change in color of status indicator 1230, or a combination of both.

If fob 1200 is not placed within the activation range of any smart patches 100, then fob 1200 indicates to the user this failure to detect any smart patches 100. In some examples, fob 1200 indicates this failure to detect using a distinctive sequence of on and off illuminations of status indicator 1230, or a change in color of status indicator 1230, or a combination of both, this sequence or color change being different from that used to indicate other modes of fob 1200.

In some examples, the user presses pair button 1224 on fob 1200 to initiate an attempt to connect fob 1200 to smart patch 100.

FIG. 12 illustrates a smart patch 100 that includes a supplemental button 130 in accordance with examples. In some examples, fob 1200 indicates the successful connection to a smart patch 100 by illuminating status indicator 1230 with one of multiple indication patterns, and fob 1200 indicates a failed connection attempt between fob 1200 and a smart patch 100 by illuminating the status indicator with a different and distinct indication pattern.

In some examples, when fob 1200 indicates its detection of more than one smart patch 100, the user presses supplemental button 130 on the detected smart patch 100 to which the user wants to connect, this pressing to continue for a length of time at least as specified in the user instructions, such as for four seconds. This pressing action is recognized by the selected smart patch, the smart patch in turn sending this indication to fob 1200. Fob 1200, recognizing one of the many detected smart patches 100 to be the one to which the user wants to connect, continues the connection process with that smart patch 100, ignoring other detected smart patches 100, by requiring a continuous pressing of the supplemental button. The smart patch ignores pressings shorter than the minimum duration such as may occur when the smart patch is being applied to, or removed from the skin.

In some examples, supplemental button 130 is a capacitive button, sealed inside smart patch 100 such that the environmental integrity of the smart patch is not affected by the interior supplemental button circuit.

In some examples, supplemental button 130 has no effect on the smart patch 100 state except when smart patch 100 is both powered on and in the process of completing a connection with fob 1200. Smart patch 100 ignores pressings of supplemental button 130 when smart patch 100 is either powered off or not in the process of completing a connection with fob 1200. Such pressings may occur when the supplemental button is pressed by clothing or other exterior objects.

In connection with pairing either smart input device 200 or fob 1200 (generally referred to as the “controller”), examples determine distance between patch 100 and smart input device 200 or fob 1200. In a fob example (which equally applies to smart input device 200), the distance is determined using BLE and the Received Signal Strength Indicator (“RSSI”). Fob 1200 will attempt to pair with a smart patch 100 it detects with the strongest RSSI signal, only if the smart patch 100 is within 2 feet or some other predefined distance.

After fob 1200 pairs with a smart patch 100, that connection is “latched”. Fob 1200 will pair with no other smart patch 100. Smart patch 100 will pair with no other fob 1200. Each device “remembers” the unique ID of the device with which it is paired.

If the BLE connection is broken, fob 1200 will attempt to pair again, but may only complete a pairing with the patch 100 it had been paired to before the connection was broken. Other patches that may reply to the “ping” of fob 1200 searching for its partner will not be recognized by the fob software in the event of a broken connection.

Fob 1200 pings the patch periodically as a kind of “heartbeat” to make sure that the patch is still there. Therefore, fob 1200 knows within a margin of error that smart patch 100 is still there. This avoids fob 1200 having to initiate a new pairing when the user presses the START button for a stimulation (i.e., when smart patch 100 provides neural stimulation). The stimulation can begin immediately, without the “5 second” delay or other predefined amount of delay needed to complete a pairing sequence. Users do not want a delay of several seconds when they press START and expect the stimulation to start right away.

In some examples, if fob 1200 detects that it has a low battery level, it saves the ID information, state and strength of the connected patch 100. This data is saved into nonvolatile memory in fob 1200. The power for fob 1200 can then be fixed. Fob 1200 can then immediately re-pair with the patch it used before, assumed still to be in range and on the user.

If fob 1200 fails to pair with a smart patch 100, then fob 1200 tries again. This is useful when a patch moves out of range of its fob 1200. This is repeated, but the time between attempts increases slowly, to the point where fob 1200 gives up. This saves power by reducing the number of “pings.” If a ping is successful, then fob 1200 checks the ID of that smart patch 100, and the smart patch 100 checks the ID of fob 1200. If they are as remembered from the most recent paired condition, then the connection is reinstated.

In some examples, fob 1200 when connected with smart patch 100 reads data from smart patch 100, including one or more of current stimulation strength, current state of the smart patch, such as “stimulating” or “waiting”, and current smart patch power level.

In some examples, fob 1200 uses status indicator 1230 that is capable of displaying multiple colors, such that fob 1200 selects timing of illuminations and the selection of color to indicate a set of status conditions, such as flashing red 10 seconds to indicate waiting to connect; solid red 5 seconds to indicate connection failure or no smart patch 100 found; alternating green and red to indicate moving fob 1200 closer to the smart patch 100 to connect; flashing green to indicate negotiating connection; solid green 5 seconds to indicate connection complete/ready to activate; flashing yellow to indicate multiple smart patch devices within activation range; alternating red and yellow to indicate low fob battery; the times for maintaining a color and for alternating colors selected to provide ease of recognition by the user, these times being set by timers in fob 1200.

In some examples, both fob 1200 and smart input device 200 may be connected at the same time to a smart patch 100. This may provide advantages in, for example, a medical care facility where a user and caretaker both have the ability to start/stop stimulation.

In some examples, both fob 1200 and smart input device 200 may records user data that can be saved for later data analytics. The data can include stimulation events, charge levels, time between stimulation events, etc.

Adaptive Circuit and Protocol

In the examples of smart patch 100 disclosed above, when being used for therapeutic treatment such as bladder management for OAB or other medical treatments, there is a need to control the voltage by boosting the voltage to a selected level and providing the same level of charge upon activation to a mammalian nerve. Further, there is a need to conserve battery life by selectively using battery power. Further, there is a need to create a compact electronics package to facilitate mounting the electronics package on a relatively small mammalian dermal patch in the range of the size of an ordinary adhesive bandage. In general, the disclosed voltage levels are peak-to-peak voltage levels. As disclosed, smart input device 200 and/or fob 1200 provide remote control of smart patch 100, including manually controlled start/stop of activation/stimulation, and manual control of the strength of the activation/stimulation. However, in some examples, aspects of the current applied to the nerve are automatically adjusted based on feedback.

To meet the above needs, examples implement a novel boosted voltage circuit a part of smart patch 100 that includes a feedback circuit and a charge application circuit. FIG. 13A is a circuit diagram of an example of the boost voltage circuit 1300 that includes feedback and is included within smart patch 100 (coupled to a common substrate with electrodes, sensors, processor/controller, power, etc. in examples). FIG. 13B is a circuit diagram of an example of a charge application circuit 1400 that uses an output of boost voltage circuit 1300 and functions as an microcontroller controlled switch of current into the user. Boost voltage circuit 1300 includes both electrical components and a controller/processor 1370 that includes a sequence of instructions that together modify the voltage level of activation/stimulation delivered to the external dermis of a user by the patch through electrodes.

Boost voltage circuit 1300 can replace an independent analog-controlled boost regulator by using a digital control loop to create a regulated voltage, output voltage 1350, from the battery source. Output voltage 1350 is provided as an input voltage to charge application circuit 1400. In examples, this voltage provides nerve stimulation currents through the dermis/skin to deliver therapy for an overactive bladder. Output voltage 1350, or “VB_(oost)”, at voltage output node 1350, uses two digital feedback paths 1320, 1330, through controller 1370. In each of these paths, controller 1370 uses sequences of instructions to interpret the measured voltages at voltage monitor 1326, or “V_(ADC)”, and current monitor 1334, or “I_(ADC)”, and determines the proper output control for accurate and stable output voltage 1350.

Boost voltage circuit 1300 includes an inductor 1312, a diode 1314, a capacitor 1316 that together implement a boosted converter circuit 1310. A voltage monitoring circuit 1320 includes a resistor divider formed by a top resistor 1322, or “R_(T)”, a bottom resistor 1324, or “R_(B)” and voltage monitor 1326. A current monitoring circuit 1330 includes a current measuring resistor 1332, or “R_(I)” and current monitor 1334. A pulse width modulation (“PWM”) circuit 1340 includes a field-effect transistor (“FET”) switch 1342, and a PWM driver 1344. Output voltage 1350 functions as a sink for the electrical energy. An input voltage 1360, or “V_(BAT)”, is the source for the electrical energy.

PWM circuit 1340 alters the “on” time within a digital square wave, fixed frequency signal to change the ratio of time that a power switch is commanded to be “on” versus “off.” In boosted voltage circuit 1300, PWM driver 1344 drives FET switch 1342 to “on” and “off” states.

In operation, when FET switch 1342 is on, i.e., conducting, the drain of FET switch 1342 is brought down to Ground/GND or ground node 1372. FET switch 1342 remains on until its current reaches a level selected by controller 1370 acting as a servo controller. This current is measured as a representative voltage on current measuring resistor 1332 detected by current monitor 1334. Due to the inductance of inductor 1312, energy is stored in the magnetic field within inductor 1312. The current flows through current measuring resistor 1332 to ground until FET switch 1342 is opened by PWM driver 1344.

When the intended pulse width duration is achieved, controller 1370 turns off FET switch 1342. The current in inductor 1312 reroutes from FET switch 1342 to diode 1314, causing diode 1314 to forward current. Diode 1314 charges capacitor 1316. Therefore, the voltage level at capacitor 1316 is controlled by controller 1370.

Output voltage 1350 is controlled using an outer servo loop of voltage monitor 1326 and controller 1370. Output voltage 1350 is measured by the resistor divider using top resistor 1322, bottom resistor 1324, and voltage monitor 1326. The values of top resistor 1322 and bottom resistor 1324 are selected to keep the voltage across bottom resistor 1324 within the monitoring range of voltage monitor 1326. Controller 1370 monitors the output value from voltage monitor 1326.

Charge application circuit 1400 includes a pulse application circuit 1410 that includes an enable switch 1414. Controller 1370 does not allow enable switch 1414 to turn on unless output voltage 1350 is within a desired upper and lower range of the desired value of output voltage 1350. Pulse application circuit 1410 is operated by controller 1370 by asserting an enable signal 1412, or “VSW”, which turns on enable switch 1414 to pass the electrical energy represented by output voltage 1350 through electrodes 1420. At the same time, controller 1370 continues to monitor output voltage 1350 and controls PWM driver 1344 to switch FET switch 1342 on and off and to maintain capacitor 1316 to the desired value of output voltage 1350.

The stability of output voltage 1350 can be increased by an optional inner feedback loop through FET Switch 1342, current measuring resistor 1332, and current monitor 1334. Controller 1370 monitors the output value from current monitor 1334 at a faster rate than the monitoring on voltage monitor 1326 so that the variations in the voltages achieved at the cathode of diode 1314 are minimized, thereby improving control of the voltage swing and load sensitivity of output voltage 1350.

In one example, a voltage doubler circuit is added to boosted voltage circuit 1300 to double the high voltage output or to reduce voltage stress on FET 1342. The voltage doubler circuit builds charge in a transfer capacitor when FET 1342 is turned on and adds voltage to the output of boosted voltage circuit 1300 when FET 1342 is turned off.

As described, in examples, controller 1370 uses multiple feedback loops to adjust the duty cycle of PWM driver 1344 to create a stable output voltage 1350 across a range of values. Controller 1370 uses multiple feedback loops and monitoring circuit parameters to control output voltage 1350 and to evaluate a proper function of the hardware. Controller 1370 acts on the feedback and monitoring values in order to provide improved patient safety and reduced electrical hazard by disabling incorrect electrical functions.

In some examples, controller 1370 implements the monitoring instructions in firmware or software code. In some examples, controller 1370 implements the monitoring instructions in a hardware state machine. The firmware may communicate an electrical hazard to the APP or Fob via a BLE notification of a state change from ON/OFF to DEAD.

In some examples, voltage monitor 1326 is an internal feature of controller 1370. In some examples, voltage monitor 1326 is an external component, which delivers its digital output value to a digital input port of controller 1370.

In some examples, current monitor 1334 is an internal feature of controller 1370. In some examples, current monitor 1334 is an external component, which delivers its digital output value to a digital input port of controller 1370.

An advantage of boosted voltage circuit 1300 over known circuits is decreased component count which may result in reduced costs, reduced circuit board size and higher reliability. Further, boosted voltage circuit 1300 provides for centralized processing of all feedback data which leads to faster response to malfunctions. Further, boosted voltage circuit 1300 controls outflow current from V_(BAT) 1360, which increases the battery's lifetime and reliability.

FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of the functionality of controller 1370 of monitoring and controlling output voltage 1350, including its ramp rate. In one example, the functionality of the flow diagram of FIG. 14, and FIG. 15 below, is implemented by software stored in memory or other computer readable or tangible medium, and executed by a processor. In other examples, the functionality may be performed by hardware (e.g., through the use of an application-specific integrated circuit (“ASIC”), a programmable gate array (“PGA”), a field programmable gate array (“FPGA”), etc.), or any combination of hardware and software.

The pulse width modulation of FET switch 1342 is controlled by one or more pulses for which the setting of each pulse width allows more or less charge to accumulate as a voltage at capacitor 1316 through diode 1314. This pulse width setting is referred to as the ramp strength and it is initialized at 2810. Controller 1370 enables each pulse group in sequence with a pre-determined pulse width, one stage at a time, using a stage index that is initialized at 2812. The desired ramp strength is converted to a pulse width at 2824, which enables and disables FET switch 1342 according to the pulse width. During the intervals when FET switch 1342 is “on”, the current is measured by current monitor 1334 at 2830 and checked against the expected value at 2836. When the current reaches the expected value, the stage is complete and the stage index is incremented at 2840. If the desired number of stages have been applied 2842, then the functionality is complete. Otherwise, the functionality continues to the next stage at 2820.

As a result of the functionality of FIG. 14, V_(BAT) 1360 used in smart patch 100 operates for longer periods as the current drawn from the battery ramps at a low rate of increase to reduce the peak current needed to achieve the final voltage level 1350 for each activation/stimulation treatment. PWM 1344 duty cycle is adjusted by controller 1370 to change the ramp strength at 2810 to improve the useful life of the battery.

An open loop protocol to control current to electrodes in known neural stimulation devices does not have feedback controls. It commands a voltage to be set, but does not check the actual current delivered. A stimulation pulse is sent based on preset parameters and cannot be modified based on feedback from the patient's anatomy. When the device is removed and repositioned, the electrode placement varies. Also the humidity and temperature of the anatomy changes throughout the day. All these factors affect the actual charge delivery if the voltage is preset. Charge control is a patient safety feature and facilitates an improvement in patient comfort, treatment consistency and efficacy of treatment.

In contrast, examples of smart patch 100 includes features that address these shortcomings using controller 1370 to regulate the charge applied by electrodes 1420. Controller 1370 samples the voltage of the stimulation waveform, providing feedback and impedance calculations for an adaptive protocol to modify the stimulation waveform in real time. The current delivered to the anatomy by the stimulation waveform is integrated using a differential integrator and sampled and then summed to determine the actual charge delivered to the user for a treatment, such as Overactive Bladder (“OAB”) treatment. After every pulse in a stimulation event, this data is analyzed and used to modify, in real time, subsequent pulses.

This hardware adaptation allows a firmware protocol to implement the adaptive protocol. This protocol regulates the charge applied to the body by changing output voltage (“V_(BOOST)”) 1350. A treatment is performed by a sequence of periodic pulses, which deliver charge into the body through electrodes 1420. Some of the parameters of the treatment are fixed and some are user adjustable. The strength, duration and frequency may be user adjustable. The user may adjust these parameters as necessary for comfort and efficacy. The strength may be lowered if there is discomfort and raised if nothing is felt. The duration can be increased if the maximum acceptable strength results in an ineffective treatment.

A flow diagram in accordance with one example of the adaptive protocol disclosed above is shown in FIG. 15. The adaptive protocol strives to repeatedly and reliably deliver a target charge (“Q_(target)”) during a treatment and to account for any environmental changes. Therefore, the functionality of FIG. 15 is to adjust the charge level applied to a user based on feedback, rather than use a constant level.

The mathematical expression of this protocol is as follows:

Q_(target)=Q_(target) (A*dS+B*dT), where A is the Strength Coefficient—determined empirically, dS is the user change in Strength, B is the Duration Coefficient—determined empirically, and dT is the user change in Duration.

The adaptive protocol includes two phases in one example: Acquisition phase 501 and Reproduction phase 520. Any change in user parameters places the adaptive protocol in the Acquisition phase. When the first treatment is started, a new baseline charge is computed based on the new parameters. At a new acquisition phase at 502, all data from the previous charge application is discarded. In one example, 502 indicates the first time for the current usage where the user places the patch on a portion of the body and manually adjusts the charge level, which is a series of charge pulses, until it feels suitable, or any time the charge level is changed, either manually or automatically. The treatment then starts. The mathematical expression of this function of the application of a charge is as follows: The charge delivered in a treatment is

$Q_{target} = {\sum\limits_{i = 1}^{T*f}\; {Q_{pulse}(i)}}$

Where T is the duration; f is the frequency of “Rep Rate”; Q_(pulse) (i) is the measured charge delivered by Pulse (i) in the treatment pulse train provided as a voltage MON_CURRENT that is the result of a Differential Integrator circuit shown in FIG. 16 (i.e., the average amount of charge per pulse). Differential Integrator circuit 702 of FIG. 16 is an example of a circuit used to integrate current measured over time and quantify the delivered charge and therefore determine the charge output over a treatment pulse. The number of pulses in the treatment is T*f.

As shown in of FIG. 16, MON_CURRENT 760 is the result of the Differential Integrator Circuit 702. Analog to Digital Conversion (“ADC”) 710 functionality is used to quantify voltage into a number representing the delivered charge. The voltage is measured between Electrode A 720 and Electrode B 730, using a Kelvin Connection 740. Electrode A 720 and Electrode B 730 are connected to a header 750. A reference voltage, VREF 770, is included to keep the measurement in range. The digitized value of MON_CURRENT 760 represents the delivered charge.

In some examples, Analog to Digital Conversion 710 is an internal feature of controller 1370. In some examples, Analog to Digital Conversion 710 is an external component, which delivers its digital output value to a digital input port on Controller 1370.

At 504 and 506, every pulse is sampled. In one example, the functionality of 504 and 506 lasts for 10 seconds with a pulse rate of 20 Hz, which can be considered a full treatment cycle. The result of Acquisition phase 501 is the target pulse charge of Q_(target).

FIG. 17 is a table in accordance with one example showing the number of pulses per treatment measured against two parameters, frequency and duration and includes the number of pulses available for modification within the stimulation. Frequency is shown on the Y-axis and duration on the X-axis. The adaptive protocol in general performs better when using more pulses. One example uses a minimum of 100 pulses to provide for solid convergence of charge data feedback, although a less number of pulses can be used in other examples. Referring to the FIG. 17, a frequency setting of 20 Hz and duration of 10 seconds produces 200 pulses.

The reproduction phase 520 begins in one example when the user initiates another subsequent treatment after acquisition phase 500 and the resulting acquisition of the baseline charge, Q_(target). For example, a full treatment cycle, as discussed above, may take 10 seconds. After, for example, a two-hour pause as shown at wait period 522, the user may then initiate another treatment. During this phase, the adaptive protocol attempts to deliver Q_(target) for each subsequent treatment. The functionality of reproduction phase 520 is needed because, during the wait period 522, conditions such as the impedance of the user's body due to sweat or air humidity may have changed. The differential integrator is sampled at the end of each Pulse in the Treatment. At that point, the next treatment is started and the differential integrator is sampled for each pulse at 524 for purposes of comparison to the acquisition phase Q_(target). Sampling the pulse includes measuring the output of the pulse in terms of total electric charge. The output of the integrator of FIG. 16 in voltage, referred to as Mon_Current 760, is a direct linear relationship to the delivered charge and provides a reading of how much charge is leaving the device and entering the user. At 526, each single pulse is compared to the charge value determined in Acquisition phase 500 (i.e., the target charge) and the next pulse will be adjusted in the direction of the difference.

NUM_PULSES=(T*f)

After each pulse, the observed charge, Q_(pulse)(i), is compared to the expected charge per pulse.

Q _(pulse)(i)>Q _(target)/NUM_PULSES?

The output charge or “V_(BOOST)” is then modified at either 528 (decreasing) or 535 (increasing) for the subsequent pulse by:

dV(i)=G[Q _(target)/NUM_PULSES−Q _(pulse)(i)]

where G is the Voltage adjustment Coefficient—determined empirically. The process continues until the last pulse at 532.

A safety feature assures that the VBOOST will never be adjusted higher by more than 10%. If more charge is necessary, then the repetition rate or duration can be increased.

In one example a boost voltage circuit uses dedicated circuits to servo the boost voltage. These circuits process voltage and/or current measurements to control the PWM duty cycle of the boost voltage circuit's switch. In another example, the system controller can set the voltage by adjusting the gain of the feedback loop in the boost voltage circuit. This is done with a digital potentiometer or other digital to analog circuit.

In one example, in general, the current is sampled for every pulse during acquisition phase 500 to establish target charge for reproduction. The voltage is then adjusted via a digital potentiometer, herein referred to as “Pot”, during reproduction phase 520 to achieve the established target_charge, or the duty cycle of a PWM is adjusted.

The digital Pot is calibrated with the actual voltage at startup. A table is generated with sampled voltage for each wiper value. Tables are also precomputed storing the Pot wiper increment needed for 1 v and 5 v output delta at each pot level. This enables quick reference for voltage adjustments during the reproduction phase. The tables may need periodic recalibration due to battery level.

In one example, during acquisition phase 501, the data set=100 pulses and every pulse is sampled and the average is used as the target_charge for reproduction phase 520. In general, fewer pulses provide a weaker data sample to use as a basis for reproduction phase 520.

In one example, during acquisition phase 501, the maximum data set=1000 pulses. The maximum is used to avoid overflow of 32 bit integers in accumulating the sum of samples. Further, 1000 pulses in one example is a sufficiently large data set and collecting more is likely unnecessary.

After 1000 pulses for the above example, the target_charge is computed. Additional pulses beyond 1000 in the acquisition phase do not contribute to the computation of the target charge. In other examples, the maximum data set is greater than 1000 pulses when longer treatment cycle times are desired.

In one example, the first 3-4 pulses are generally higher than the rest so these are not used in acquisition phase 501. This is also accounted for in reproduction phase 520. Using these too high values can result in target charge being set too high and over stimulating on the subsequent treatments in reproduction phase 520. In other examples, more advanced averaging algorithms could be applied to eliminate high and low values.

In an example, there may be a safety concern about automatically increasing the voltage. For example, if there is poor connection between the device and the user's skin, the voltage may auto-adjust at 535 up to the max. The impedance may then be reduced, for example by the user pressing the device firmly, which may result in a sudden high current. Therefore, in one example, if the sample is 500 mv or more higher than the target, it immediately adjusts to the minimum voltage. This example then remains in reproduction phase 520 and should adjust back to the target current/charge level. In another example, the maximum voltage increase is set for a single treatment (e.g., 10V). More than that is not needed to achieve the established target_charge. In another example, a max is set for VBOOST (e.g., 80V).

In various examples, it is desired to have stability during reproduction phase 520. In one example, this is accomplished by adjusting the voltage by steps. However, a relatively large step adjustment can result in oscillation or over stimulation. Therefore, voltage adjustments may be made in smaller steps. The step size may be based on both the delta between the target and sample current as well as on the actual VBOOST voltage level. This facilitates a quick and stable/smooth convergence to the target charge and uses a more gradual adjustments at lower voltages for more sensitive users.

The following are the conditions that may be evaluated to determine the adjustment step.

-   -   delta-mon_current=abs(sample_mon_current−target_charge)     -   If delta_mon_current>500 mv and VBOOST>20V then step=5V for         increase adjustments     -   (For decrease adjustments a 500 mv delta triggers emergency         decrease to minimum Voltage)     -   If delta_mon_current>200 mv then step=1V     -   If delta_mon_current>100 mv and delta_mon_current>5% *         sample_mon_current then step=1V

In other examples, new treatments are started with voltage lower than target voltage with a voltage buffer of approximately 10%. The impedance is unknown at the treatment start. These examples save the target_voltage in use at the end of a treatment. If the user has not adjusted the strength parameter manually, it starts a new treatment with saved target_voltage with the 10% buffer. This achieves target current quickly with the 10% buffer to avoid possible over stimulation in case impedance has been reduced. This also compensates for the first 3-4 pulses that are generally higher.

As disclosed, examples apply an initial charge level, and then automatically adjust based on feedback of the amount of current being applied. The charge amount can be varied up or down while being applied. Therefore, rather than setting and then applying a fixed voltage level throughout a treatment cycle, implementations of the invention measure the amount of charge that is being input to the user, and adjust accordingly throughout the treatment to maintain a target charge level that is suitable for the current environment.

The adaptive circuit described above provides the means to monitor the charge sent through the electrodes to the user's tissue and to adjust the strength and duration of sending charge so as to adapt to changes in the impedance through the electrode-to-skin interface and through the user's tissue such that the field strength at the target nerve is within the bounds needed to overcome the action potential of that nerve at that location and activate a nerve impulse. These changes in impedance may be caused by environmental changes, such as wetness or dryness of the skin or underlying tissue, or by applied lotion or the like; or by tissue changes, such as skin dryness; or by changes in the device's placement on the user's skin, such as by removing the patch and re-applying it in a different location or orientation relative to the target nerve; or by combinations of the above and other factors.

The combined circuits and circuit controls disclose herein generate a charge that is repeated on subsequent uses. The voltage boost conserves battery power by generating voltage on demand. The result is an effective and compact electronics package suitable for mounting on or in a fabric or similar material for adherence to a dermis that allows electrodes to be placed near selected nerves to be activated.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a computer system 10 in accordance with examples of the invention. Although shown as a single system, the functionality of system 10 can be implemented as a distributed system. Further, the functionality disclosed herein can be implemented on separate servers or devices that may be coupled together over a network. Further, one or more components of system 10 may not be included. System 10 can implement any of the controller elements disclosed herein, including smart input device 200 and fob 1200 or any element of a neuro or neural activation system.

System 10 includes a bus 12 or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a processor 22 coupled to bus 12 for processing information. Processor 22 may be any type of general or specific purpose processor. System 10 further includes a memory 14 for storing information and instructions to be executed by processor 22. Memory 14 can be comprised of any combination of random access memory (“RAM”), read only memory (“ROM”), static storage such as a magnetic or optical disk, or any other type of computer readable media. System 10 further includes a communication device 20, such as a network interface card, to provide access to a network. Therefore, a user may interface with system 10 directly, or remotely through a network, or any other method.

Computer readable media may be any available media that can be accessed by processor 22 and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, removable and non-removable media, and communication media. Communication media may include computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal such as a carrier wave or other transport mechanism, and includes any information delivery media.

Processor 22 is further coupled via bus 12 to a display 24, such as a Liquid Crystal Display (“LCD”). A keyboard 26 and a cursor control device 28, such as a computer mouse, are further coupled to bus 12 to enable a user to interface with system 10.

In one embodiment, memory 14 stores software modules that provide functionality when executed by processor 22. The modules include an operating system 15 that provides operating system functionality for system 10. The modules further include a hot socket prediction module 16 that predicts hot sockets for one or more smart meter installations, and all other functionality disclosed herein. System 10 can be part of a larger system. Therefore, system 10 can include one or more additional functional modules 18 to include the additional functionality, such as a smartphone related software. A file storage device or database 17 is coupled to bus 12 to provide centralized storage for modules 16 and 18.

Several examples are specifically illustrated and/or described herein. However, it will be appreciated that modifications and variations of the disclosed examples are covered by the above teachings and within the purview of the appended claims without departing from the spirit and intended scope of the invention. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A neuro activation system comprising: a patch adapted to be applied externally on a dermis of a user, the patch comprising a flexible substrate and an adhesive on a first side adapted to adhere to the dermis of the user, an electronic package coupled to the substrate, the electronic package comprising a control unit and one or more stimulators, and electrodes directly coupled to the substrate and the electronic package, the patch adapted to generate an electrical stimuli via the electrodes; and a controller in wireless communication with the patch, the controller comprising remote functionality to start and stop the electrical stimuli.
 2. The neuro activation system of claim 1, the remote functionality further comprising increasing and decreasing a level of the electrical stimuli.
 3. The neuro activation system of claim 1, the remote functionality further comprising pairing the controller with the patch when the patch is located closer to the controller compared to other patches.
 4. The neuro activation system of claim 1, the remote functionality further comprising pairing the controller with the patch when the patch is a most recently paired patch compared to other patches.
 5. The neuro activation system of claim 1, the patch further comprising a unique digital identity.
 6. The neuro activation system of claim 1, the controller comprising software that, when executed by a processor, implements the remote functionality.
 7. The neuro activation system of claim 1, the controller comprising a fob.
 8. The neuro activation system of claim 1, the generated electrical stimuli adapted to alleviate an overactive bladder, the remote functionality further comprising recording a leak or a no leak event.
 9. A method of neuro activation, the method comprising applying a smart patch externally on a dermis of a user, the patch comprising a flexible substrate and an adhesive on a first side adapted to adhere to the dermis of the user, an electronic package coupled to the substrate, the electronic package comprising a control unit and one or more stimulators, and electrodes directly coupled to the substrate and the electronic package; starting and stopping electrical stimuli using a controller in wireless communication with the patch, the electrical stimuli generated by the patch via the electrodes.
 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising increasing and decreasing a level of the electrical stimuli using the controller.
 11. The method of claim 9, further comprising pairing the controller with the patch when the patch is located closer to the controller compared to other patches.
 12. The method of claim 9, further comprising pairing the controller with the patch when the patch is a most recently paired patch compared to other patches.
 13. The method of claim 9, the patch further comprising a unique digital identity.
 14. The method of claim 9, the controller comprising software that, when executed by a processor, implements remote functionality.
 15. The method of claim 9, the controller comprising a fob.
 16. The method of claim 9, the generated electrical stimuli adapted to alleviate an overactive bladder, further comprising recording a leak or a no leak event at the controller.
 17. A wireless controller for treating an overactive bladder condition, the wireless controller comprising: a first selectable element that when selected causes a starting of an electrical stimuli that is applied via a patch to a tibial nerve of a user; a second selectable element that when selected causes a stopping of the electrical stimuli; a wireless communication module for providing communication with the patch; a pairing functionality for pairing with the patch; the patch adapted to be applied externally on a dermis of a user, the patch comprising a flexible substrate and an adhesive on a first side adapted to adhere to the dermis of the user, an electronic package coupled to the substrate, the electronic package comprising a control unit and one or more stimulators, and electrodes directly coupled to the substrate and the electronic package, the patch adapted to generate an electrical stimuli via the electrodes.
 17. The wireless controller of claim 16, further comprising: a third selectable element that when selected causes an increasing of a level of the electrical stimuli; and a fourth selectable element that when selected causes a decreasing of the level of the electrical stimuli.
 18. The wireless controller of claim 16, further comprising: a fifth selectable element that when selected causes the patch to be paired with the controller; a sixth selectable element that when selected causes the patch to be un-paired from the controller.
 19. The wireless controller of claim 18, the pairing the controller with the patch implemented when the patch is located closer to the controller compared to other patches.
 20. The wireless controller of claim 18, the pairing the controller with the patch implemented when the patch is a most recently paired patch compared to other patches. 